Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD)

An association for peace and development

The "Intergovernmental Authority on Development” (IGAD) is a body currently comprising seven countries in the Horn of Africa. The regional organisation based in Djibouti supports its member states in their manifold development efforts, especially in the areas of peace processes and food security. Since the drought catastrophe in 2011, IGAD has also been coordinating a regional approach to strengthen drought resilience in Eastern Africa. On behalf of the German federal government, KfW Development Bank works together with IGAD as a strategic coordination body and thus promotes cross-border programmes in selected countries, especially those in favor of nomads. The aim is to sustainably improve the food situation and water supply for humans and livestock.

Extreme droughts are frequent in the Horn of Africa and often result in famines and economic hardship. It is the region with the highest environmental vulnerability worldwide and is thus widely exposed to food insecurity. People living a nomadic – or pastoral – life are most affected by droughts. This traditional way of life and work has been adapted very well to conditions of nature for centuries, but it is increasingly coming under pressure due to economic and climate changes. Chronic food insecurity and hunger are the consequences.

In response to the great drought of 2011, the states in the Horn of Africa took the initiative together and decided to adopt "The Nairobi Strategy: Enhanced Partnership to Eradicate Drought Emergencies". The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) regional organisation was appointed here to coordinate regional initiatives to strengthen drought resilience. The German federal government pledged substantial financial support to IGAD for a "regional fund to strengthen drought resilience in the Horn of Africa".

KfW Development Bank supports the regional fund in close cooperation with partner countries to protect natural resources and strengthen agriculture in the region. In this context, KfW focuses primarily on improving market access and income opportunities for pastoralists, as well as promoting the supply of social services.

Project information - Food security